Spotlight on Gideon Garland (FYHS '94)

Graduating Year: 1994

Current Location: Jerusalem

Profession:   I'm a machinist, and I do mechanical support for a hi-tech company in Jerusalem. We develop and manufacture high-powered lasers.

Tell us a little bit about your family: 

Married with two daughters and a stepson

What is your favorite memory/(memories) from FYHS/HTC/Kayitz:

I loved the experience and would happily repeat it.

I still identify as being a Skokie alumnus. I loved making friends and being in a frum environment. I spent two years in the Beit Midrash after HS. It was so wonderful to sit and learn all day. I remember the cook making great cholent for Shabbos, and the onegs with all the singing were very nice.

Please share a lesson/takeaway from your time at FYHS/HTC/Kayitz:

Skokie taught me how to become more observant and committed to my Judaism. It directed the rest of my life on how I approach things and how I live. 

Advice for current students:

I realized in HS it was such a special opportunity to learn and be in a Torah environment. Appreciate your time. Step back and consider how non-frum peers are growing up and how fortunate you are to be in the yeshiva.

Anything else to share:

A few of my closest friends are from my high school class; we still keep in touch after over 30 years. The Yeshiva builds friendships for life. Have fun while taking your studies seriously.